The Las Vegas Raiders may have found a better balance in their backfield last week; however, Mike Washington Jr.’s injury put that plan in doubt. The rookie running back was beginning to earn more opportunities after making the most of his limited touches against the Buffalo Bills; with the Los Angeles Rams coming to town, his availability became an important question for an offense still struggling to establish the run.
Washington missed practice Thursday and Friday with foot and back injuries after being limited on Wednesday. That raised concerns about whether he would be available for Sunday’s game, especially after his workload increased in Week 6.
Raiders’ Latest Roster Decision Offers Clue About Mike Washington Jr.’s Status
Mike Washinton Jr,
Nov 1, 2025; Fayetteville, Arkansas, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks running back Mike Washington Jr (4) rushes for a touchdown during the third quarter against the Mississippi State Bulldogs at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Bulldogs won 38-35. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-Imagn Images
There is now some reason for optimism in the Raiders. They didn’t elevate a RB from their practice squad ahead of the matchup, a decision that could suggest they expect Washington to be available. Ryan McFadden reported the roster development on October 25, 2026, while ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported that Washington was considered a game-time decision.
#Raiders didn’t elevate a RB from the practice squad ahead of the game. And when Kubiak was asked Friday about Washington, he said “We’re expecting him to be ready.” https://t.co/BLnJMVwX7B
— Ryan McFadden (@ryanmcfadden_) October 25, 2026
The Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak delivered some positive news about Washington against the Rams, but the young running back still wasn’t sure to play because of his absence from practice due to his back and foot injuries. Washington deserves more chances considering that he gained 43 yards on nine rushes compared to Ashton Jeanty.
The Raiders also chose not to elevate a running back from the practice squad before the game, offering another reason for optimism, although Washington still needed to show he was healthy enough to play.
The rookie has given the coaching staff a reason to want him on the field. Against the Buffalo Bills, he carried the ball nine times for 43 yards and caught a pass for seven more. He finished with 50 yards from scrimmage, while Ashton Jeanty managed just 22 rushing yards on 10 carries.
The contrast has added to calls for Washington to receive a larger role. He has averaged 4.9 yards per carry this season, compared with 3.2 for Jeanty, according to the supplied reports. His recent performance also gave the Raiders another option as they try to get their ground game moving.
Keeping both backs involved could help the Raiders avoid putting too much pressure on Jeanty, who has struggled to produce consistently. Washington’s absence, though, would leave the team with fewer options. Dylan Laube could step in as Jeanty’s backup, while practice-squad running back Roman Hemby could become a consideration.
For now, the Raiders’ decision not to elevate another running back is an encouraging sign; however, it does not confirm Washington will play. His final status depends on how he feels before kickoff.